Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this dinner pie will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Rich and creamy. The perfect comfort food.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves beef and potatoes.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef and potatoes are inexpensive.
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Perfect for weeknights and special occasions.
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Great for leftovers.
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Vintage charm. A recipe with history.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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2/3 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 (15.5 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
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3/4 cup BBQ sauce
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons butter
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1/4 cup whole milk or cream
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1 pinch white pepper
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes
Ground beef: Use 80% to 90% lean ground beef.
Russet potatoes: Peel and cube them for mashing.
Cream cheese: Adds tang and creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor.
Corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
BBQ sauce: Adds smoky, tangy flavor.
How To Make Jackie Kennedy’s Dinner Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil the cubed potatoes in a large pot of water for 12 to 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pot.
Step 2: Make the Savory Filling
While the potatoes boil, brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes. Add the garlic, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Corn
Stir the drained corn and BBQ sauce into the beef mixture. Once combined, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Mash
Mash the hot potatoes with the softened cream cheese, butter, milk (or cream), and a pinch of white pepper. Using white pepper keeps the mash looking bright and clean, while the cream cheese adds a tangy depth.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cream cheese potatoes in an even layer over the top. Sprinkle generously with the shredded cheddar. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown at the edges.
How to Serve Dinner Pie
This creamy, savory pie is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
With Gravy: Add extra gravy on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It with Different Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold potatoes.
Make It with Different Cheese: Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use marinara or tomato sauce.
Make It with Vegetables: Add carrots or peas.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free BBQ sauce.
Make It in a Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Use white pepper in the potatoes. It keeps them looking bright.
Do not overmix the mashed potatoes. They should be creamy but not gummy.
Let the pie rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different potato?
Yes. Yukon Gold potatoes can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Monterey Jack or provolone can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my mash not creamy?
Add more milk or butter.
Why is my filling dry?
Add more BBQ sauce or broth.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add peas or carrots.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
The Vintage Charm of Jackie Kennedy’s Dinner Pie
There is something deeply satisfying about a recipe with history. This dinner pie is said to have been a favorite of Jackie Kennedy. It is simple, elegant, and comforting. It is the kind of dish that brings people together.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep potatoes in your pantry. Keep cream cheese and cheddar in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings